Arsene Wenger maintains Arsenal will do all they can to win the title this season with "respect for the rules" - but is not about to "kill" anyone to bring the Barclays Premier League trophy to Emirates Stadium.
The Gunners, who host newly-promoted West Brom in Saturday's lunchtime kick-off, have proved more than a match for any side when they are on form.
However, when it comes to the rougher side of the beautiful game, Wenger's charges often found themselves out-muscled when the going got tough.
Having weathered a storm to pass a stern examination by Steve McClaren's FC Twente in the away leg of their Champions League qualifier Wenger maintains his men have what it takes to mount a title challenge once again, but will not preach any sermon other than the same work ethic he has always expected.
Wenger said: "We are prepared to do whatever it takes to win a football game in respect of a football game.
"Are we ready to kill someone to win a game? No, because you have to respect the rules in football. The beauty in the game is to win in respect of the rules.
"Can you win the league by playing completely non-football? I don't believe so. Historically it is proven that the teams who win the league are the better technical teams.
"The leading clubs have a responsibility to try to make the games attractive. They can never be a long-term target to play a dirty game or one which is not attractive.
"We want to play our game because we feel it is the most efficient way to win."
Wenger hopes the new 'Respect' campaign launched this season by the Football Association will bear fruit when the top-flight action starts for real this weekend.
He continued: "It is always very nice in pre-season and everyone wants to respect each other. When it comes to points, it becomes a bit different.
"The most important thing is the actions during the game.
"When you go to church on a Sunday, the priest says everyone has to be respectful and generous - but when you come out of the church, everyone is not generous and respectful.
"We will have to show on the pitch that you are capable of doing that - but not only us so will every player."
Wenger openly admits he would like to add one more player, most likely a defensive midfielder, before the transfer window closes at the end of the month.
However, he maintains his current squad can continue their progress and mount a serious title challenge.
"We feel we were a fraction short last year by not much," Wenger explained.
"We want to show we can get the four points which made the difference last year between us and the winner.
"Of course we have lost some players - but we have also brought some players. We opted for some stability.
"Let's focus on the short-term goals and lets show later on we've learned from when we dropped off last season.
"Usually the teams which up give you a good game and it is our target to win the first game."
With Cesc Fabregas or Abou Diaby available, youngsters Aaron Ramsey, and Denilson look set for another chance to impress in the centre of midfield having started against Twente.
Summer signing Samir Nasri is in line to make his full Arsenal debut having recovered from a niggling thigh and knee complaint and Wenger is convinced the he can make an impact.
"He can replace Alex Hleb in the build up of the game, in the creation of the chances and also he is very versatile," he said.
"I expect he will fit well into our collective game and that he expresses a good attitude, is very ambitious and fights very hard for the team.
"He is an intelligent boy and that is always a very good ingredient."
Arsenal have been linked with moves for several high-profile targets - including Udinese's £8million-rated Swiss international Gokhan Inler, Gareth Barry, Xabi Alonso and even Yaya Toure, brother of Arsenal defender Kolo.
However, Wenger conceded not being able to field a new player in the Champions League - as with now cup-tied England midfielder Barry - could affect his decision.
"It is a concern and something I will consider," said Wenger, who has allowed fringe full-back Justin Hoyte to open talks with Middlesbrough.
"I feel the player loses value if he is not eligible for the Champions League. You cannot sell a player at the same price. Every club will consider that. I have a shortlist, but the list was always short."
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Comment 1 - 5 of 5
always behind any decision of urs wenger,keep the gunners flag high up there.
please wenger we need defender good one
why u think the united scum will
twats they wont win nothing again. do your talking on the pitch not in the media
Arsenal must win the league this time. Arsenal 4 Life.
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